Thomas Orlina celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with diverse female artists in his latest song and music video “Journey.” 

Thomas Orlina, besides being known as the Asian-American pop recording artist, is also a songwriter, influencer, and advocate of the LGBTQIA community (LGBTQIA stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Aromantic or Ally.) He’s looking to increase acceptance for the AAPI Asian American and Pacific Islander community by creating content with diverse representation.

“It was challenging at first to find my footing in the entertainment business,” he says, “because growing up, a lot of talented artists didn’t look like me. “I thought I had no chance in this industry. Now we live in a world where the Vice President of the United States identifies as Asian-American (Asian Indian), and there are many other entertainers, such as Olivia Rodrigo, who embrace their AAPI heritage. I find that has helped bring the representation of the AAPI community to a new dimension and elevate our community.”

During the May observance of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, “GLAAD Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation is sharing the new song and music video called ‘Journey’ from queer recording artist Thomas Orlina.” The video was choreographed by Asian-American artist Tiara Summer Richards, directed by Karla Escobar, co-written by Orlina and Christopher Bugna, and produced by Luke Villemur.

Singer Thomas Orlina on a ‘Journey’

“I drew a lot of inspiration surrounding travel, love, and happiness. ‘Journey’ captivates the audience on an emotional level. Every song that I’ve released is a true reflection of where I’m at in life and being genuinely happy, in love, and traveling the world to places like the Philippines, Paris, London, and New York.” The video “Journey” is available to stream now on Apple Music & Spotify. Follow Thomas’ social media everywhere @thomasorlina and visit his website thomasorlina.com

“My mission,” Orlina stated, is to raise awareness and champion diversity in underrepresented communities – the Pan-Asian community and people of color, while amplifying non-profit organizations. I’m part of the Asian Mental Health Project, while using my original electronic pop dance music to create impactful leadership and be a voice for change and social responsibility.”

Orlina has been vocal about his battle with mental health issues and has spoken up to raise awareness to help people and aims to spread awareness to get help before it’s too late. His story highlights an artist who is using his platform to create inspirational Billboard charting dance music to generate change and inspire future artists in music to follow suit.

His advocacy has been featured in Forbes United States, for creating global buzz for his music video “Brush It Off” which showcased a protest for the Black Lives Matter movement, and social justice and also included visibility for the LGBTQIA community with his ties to GLAAD, an organization that seeks equality – a mission dear to Thomas’ heart. He hopes to make an example that tying positive messaging into music can make a difference and is the new way to influence others on social media.

Holly Corbett of Forbes, in her article “The History Behind Common AAPI Stereotypes (May 23, 2022), wrote: “Thomas Orlina, a Filipino-American recording artist and content creator, contributes to increasing acceptance for the AAPI community by creating content with diverse representation. Orlina acknowledges the progress made with entertainers like Olivia Rodrigo embracing their AAPI heritage and elevating the community’s representation.”

Born in Los Angeles, his dad is from Manila; and his mom, from Ilocos Norte. This native Angeleno is bringing awareness to the AAPI community during the month of May, a month when most companies and brands celebrate the voices of Asian Americans.

“Music has always been a safe space for me,” Thomas continues. “As a proud Asian American who champions growth and change, I hope the next generation continues to use their voices and platforms for good and know there is a place for them in this music industry, no matter the color of their skin or their cultural background.”

Orlina’s efforts certainly align with the broader push for AAPI history education and plays a crucial role in combating anti-AAPI discrimination and promoting understanding.